Disclaimer:
The following review has been thoughtfully crafted by Mr. Arghadeep Misra from Kolkata, a cherished supporter, customer, and friend of The Audio Store. We express our gratitude to Mr. Arghadeep for generously sharing his personal insights into the ThieAudio Hype2 IEM. It is important to note that this review is entirely unbiased, reflecting Mr.Arghadeep's genuine experiences and preferences. No benefits or exchanges have influenced the content of this review. His valuable contributions significantly enhance our blog, and we sincerely appreciate his unwavering dedication to the audio enthusiast community.
Introduction
The latest addition to the ThieAudio Hype series showcases a luxurious mid-budget-centric IEM collection designed to deliver the ultimate sound experience. Featuring the innovative Impact 2 technology, each contender in this prestigious line offers a unique and immersive audio signature. Presently, the line consists of three exceptional IEMs: Hype 2 priced at $299, Hype 4 priced at $399, and Hype 10 priced at $799.
ThieAudio exudes an air of sophistication with its signature "Mature Tuning". Whether it's the Monarch MKII or Oracle, ThieAudio's collection of IEMs caters to the discerning audiophile rather than the mainstream crowd. Known for its commitment to refined tuning and flawless music reproduction, ThieAudio is now exploring the more playful aspects of the hobby. The Monarch MKII stands as a testament to this new direction.
Hype 2 embodies the essence of Hybrid+Performance, maintaining consistency in its sound production. The subwoofer delivers powerful bass, ensuring that every beat hits hard and resonates with intensity. Meanwhile, Impact 2 features a sophisticated setup of two 10mm dynamic drivers in isobaric alignment, complemented by Sonion 2356 BA drivers for extended frequencies and Sonion E25ST for a refined upper treble experience.
The Wow Factor
The most remarkable feature of this IEM lies in its unparalleled soundstage. The expansive soundstage envelops nearly 360 degrees around your head, allowing for a spacious separation between the left and right channels. The distance between you and the instruments creates a surreal experience where every sound, including vocals, appears to emanate from outside the confines of your head.
The Desire
The outmost desired feature of this IEM lies in its midrange tonality. While it doesn't lack in textural detail, it may not possess the richness and depth that I typically seek in my audio equipment. It's no surprise that prioritizing bass and treble could result in the mids being somewhat overshadowed.
Tuning Analysis
Objective Review
Bass
The bass of this IEM exudes a profound and commanding presence. It creates an immersive experience as if a dedicated subwoofer exists solely for this section (which is indeed the case, as with the Blessing 3). The subbass range is elevated, bestowing an abundance of power upon the sound. It possesses a tangible physicality and an authoritative nature, particularly when the tracks demand it.
Moreover, the transition from the sub-bass to the mid-bass is executed flawlessly, with a gradual and seamless roll-off of the bass into the mids. However, there is a slight dip that prevents any warmth from permeating the midrange.
The bass exudes a classic analog quality, with a smooth decay and natural attack that exudes sophistication and elegance. The organic decay allows for a sense of authority and control that is unmatched.
Midrange
The midrange, as one would anticipate from a harman-inspired tuning, exudes a certain character. It gracefully relinquishes the spotlight, allowing the bass and treble to take center stage. Initially, it may appear delicate in its portrayal of male vocals, but it swiftly gains momentum when it comes to female counterparts. Despite the recessed nature of the mids, they possess remarkable extension thanks to the treble region. While the texture may not reach the pinnacle of perfection, the resolution remains commendable.
Treble
Disclaimer - I am utterly enamored with the ethereal beauty of treble, so much so that I perceive it as a velvety caress where others may find it sharp and piercing. In my esteemed opinion, the treble of this IEM continues to astound. The lower treble exhibits no signs of harshness or excessive prominence, while the upper treble gracefully extends itself, adorned with a subtle touch of enhanced resolution in the resplendent 8khz range.
Behold, there is an abundance of airy brilliance awaiting you at the extreme of the sonic spectrum. This auditory opulence bestows upon us an expanse of sound so vast and all-encompassing, it can only be described as superbly spacious and infinitely extended. Not a single moment did the treble falter, displaying not even the slightest hint of unevenness or sharpness.
Subjective Review
Soundstage
The IEM's soundstaging is exceptional, showcasing a vast expansion that envelops the listener in a 360-degree symphony. While it may lack precision in layering and pinpointing instruments at various depths, the overall effect is undeniably grand. The spaciousness of the soundstage rivals even the most luxurious IEMs on the market, including the esteemed Yanin Alladin. This immersive experience extends beyond the confines of the skull, offering a thrilling audio journey that may not be suited for emotional listening, but certainly guarantees a delightful and engaging musical adventure.
Imaging
The imaging prowess of this IEM surpasses the norm. From panning to localization, it can be executed with ease, although achieving pinpoint precision remains a challenge. The stereo imaging and separation are executed with finesse. The switching speed is swift and precise.
Resolution
The resolution of this IEM at this price point is quite pleasing. It strikes a balance between impressive resolution capabilities and avoiding any sense of being low res. I have observed that this IEM delivers resolution that varies across the frequency range, with the mids being less resolving compared to the treble. Similarly, the bass also lacks a bit in resolution. The intricacies lie within the audio, where subtle nuances can be discerned, albeit not effortlessly. The minute details and delicate contrasts may not readily captivate your senses, failing to bestow upon you a sensation of utmost refinement.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Soundstage | Midrange Tonality |
| Imaging | Textural information |
| Bass | |
| Treble Extension |
Conclusion
This exquisite IEM has been meticulously crafted to provide an unparalleled experience of pure indulgence. It is not meant to be wielded as a mere tool, but rather to be savored for the sheer pleasure it brings. The focus of this auditory masterpiece lies solely on delivering an immersive sound that transports you to new realms of enjoyment. Consequently, I have refrained from delving into the intricate nuances of its timber characteristics & by recommending it wholeheartedly or blindly. I do recommend this extraordinary IEM to those who prioritize the grandeur of Soundstage, the precision of Imaging, the resonance of Bass even if it means sacrificing the neutrality, timber, and texture that some may seek. Furthermore, this IEM also proves to be an exceptional companion for indulging in the captivating world of cinema.
